The United States had it, controlled it… and let it slip away in the final moments.

Turkey defeated the United States 3-2 with a stoppage-time goal, ending the unbeaten run of Mauricio Pochettino’s team in the final match of the group stage.

The American team showed character to come back, but once again showed weakness during key moments.

A frantic start full of goals

USA vs Turkey 2026 World Cup
Photo: EFE. USA vs Turkey 2026 World Cup

The match started with everything.

The United States struck first with an early goal from Trusty, but Turkey quickly responded with goals from Güler and Kökcü to turn the score around before halftime.

The pace was intense and chaotic.

United States responded in the second half

Photo: EFE. USA vs Turkey 2026 World Cup

The home team did not give up.

At the start of the second half, Berhalter tied the match with a powerful shot from outside the box, bringing hope back to the Americans.

“Berhalter… placed it as close to the post as possible to equalize the score”

Control without reward for Pochettino’s team

Mundial - Turquía, USA vs Turkey 2026 World Cup
Photo: EFE

After the equalizer, the United States took control.

They created several clear chances, pressed high and came close to scoring the third goal, but they failed to finish the opportunities they created.

The lack of effectiveness proved costly.

Turkey struck at the decisive moment

Turquía
Photo: EFE

When it seemed like the draw was secured, the final blow arrived.

In stoppage time, Kaan Ayhan scored the definitive 3-2 goal after a play inside the box, leaving the American team without an answer.

“¡¡GOOOOOL DE AYHAN!! … shot inside the six-yard box”

A defeat that leaves important lessons

Mundial - Resultado
USA vs Turkey 2026 World Cup – Photo: EFE

The final whistle confirmed the loss.

The United States closes the group stage with defensive doubts in the final minutes, while Turkey says goodbye to the tournament with a victory in this USA vs Turkey 2026 World Cup clash.

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